WHITE CO, IL (WFIE) -
There's a fundraiser planned this weekend for the families and victims of that oil field explosion that happened back in July in White County.
Three workers were hurt, and one more was killed.
"The support has been overwhelming. I can't believe that everyone in our community has reached out to me."
Ever since the July oil tank explosion, Shane Farris' widow Amber says the Enfield community never stopped helping out.
Shane Farris, 36, died as a result of injuries from that explosion, while Brandon Hooper, John Sullivan and Jason Parr were treated for burns.
"With Shane Farris being from Enfield, we wanted to try to do something to help his family," said Senior Warden at the Enfield Masonic Lodge Larry Lewis.
That's when Lewis says numerous community organizations joined in, forming the Enfield Community Fundraisers group, helping out the Farrises and each of the families involved with expensive medical bills and funeral costs.
"That's what we're there for is to help others," Lewis said. "So, if we can't do it, who's going to?"
Amber Farris says Shane was hard-working and athletic, and loved spending time with her and their seven-year-old son.
"Very devoted to me as a husband and very devoted father," Amber said.
Amber tells us, while the community will greatly miss Shane, he would be proud of how his community is joining together during a tough time.
A pancake breakfast and fundraiser starts at 6:00 a.m. Saturday at the Enfield United Methodist Church.
Those following is a list of organizations participating in the fundraiser:
- The Enfield Garden Club
- Enfield Lion's Club
- Enfield Masonic Lodge #577
- Enfield Christian Church
- St. Patrick's Catholic Church
- Enfield Baptist Church
- Enfield United Methodist Church
- St. Isadore Council #7118 Knights of Columbus
- Booth School Student Council & Teachers
For more information, you can call 618-384-9921, send an e-mail to bat2121@yahoo.com, or send questions to the Enfield Lodge #677 at PO Box 278 Enfield, IL 62835.
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This weekend's fundraiser in Enfield started when the Mason's Lodge wanted to raise money for the Farris family, and now several other local organizations have come together to help out each family involved.
